11 Clever Ways to Find Unadvertised Jobs
If you have ever sought a new job, you are familiar with the
routine of putting together a résumé, coordinating one or more interview
outfits and practicing answers to tough interview questions. You have
probably also spent at least some time scouting out newspaper want ads
or online job listings. While a résumé and proper attire are essential
elements of an effective job search, limiting your job seeking efforts
to advertised openings is largely a waste of time.
What’s
worse? Many companies use applicant tracking systems, better known as
black holes where résumés and applications go to die. The hard truth is
that when you apply for advertised openings, it’s unlikely that your
credentials will ever be considered by a human being – much less
result in an interview.
So, then, how can you get a
job? Try looking for the jobs that aren’t posted. Using the methods
below to find unadvertised jobs can improve the odds of landing a
job fast.
1. Through a Friend of a Friend
If you know someone who works for a company where you’d like to
land a job, there is nothing wrong with making a casual inquiry about
possible openings. Don’t strong arm anyone into making a recommendation,
but if your friend or acquaintance offers to make an introduction,
definitely take him or her up on it.
2. By Volunteering for the Company
Volunteering
is an especially good way to get your foot in the door with nonprofit
agencies, and not just stuffing envelopes. Many professionals volunteer
their services to nonprofit agencies during their off hours. By making
yourself a known quantity, it’s natural that you will probably be
considered first for any paid openings that come up.
3. While Using Social Media
You don’t have to open up your Facebook or Instagram profiles to
the world in order to take advantage of the career-boosting aspects of
social media. Instead, establish a Facebook Page along with profiles on
Google+, LinkedIn, Twitter and other social media platforms that are a
natural fit for career and business purposes. Post career-related
updates and “follow” prominent figures in your chosen industry to expand
your network.
LinkedIn is a key player here;
you can use the platform to learn about companies, make connections
with other professionals, and get your profile (which, on LI acts as a
resume) in front of many people. By joining groups in your industry
you’re often one of the first to know about new job opportunities. But
the best part about LinkedIn? You can connect directly to HR reps and
headhunters, skipping the black hole system and getting solid info from
important people.
4. By Getting Headhunted
If
you are a highly skilled professional, you may be able to generate
interest in one or more headhunters, who are always on the lookout for
top-level talent. However, you should remember that headhunters work for
the companies that contract their services, not for you. You must be a
good fit for the types of positions that a headhunter is scouting for
before you can expect him or her to express much interest in you. Even
then, you still have to go through the interview, jump through the
hoops, and so on. But if you’ve got the goods, they’ve got the gig.
5. Through Genius Google Searches
If you regularly use Google for searches, you may be aware of the
power of its search terms. Glassdoor describes a method that allows you
to use these search terms to turn the tables on applicant tracking
systems to scout out unadvertised job openings. For instance, searching
for site:Taleo.net will generate a list of sites using the popular Taleo ATS for résumé screening. Adding the search term intitle:careers limits the search to web pages that have “career” in the title (and are therefore more likely to include job listings).
6. Exploring Company Websites
You
won’t necessarily be seeking out job openings, although you can
certainly apply to any posted openings that interest you. Instead, you
should scout out company blogs, annual reports or press releases for
news about the company. Look for announcements of new products, expanded
facilities or other signs that the company may be seeking additional
staff in the near future. You will also be well prepared for any
interviews that you may obtain, since you’ll have extensive knowledge
about the company.
7. By Shaking Hands at Networking Events
Extroverts often thrive at networking events. Introverts – not so
much. However, meeting people face-to-face is the best way to make
contacts and generate job leads. One way of reducing the “schmooze”
factor of networking events is to approach other individuals and small
groups for a series of conversations rather than attempting to “work the
room” by shaking hands with everyone there. If you’re really shy, try
attending networking functions with a friend – just be sure that you
each reach out to others during the event. Another option is checking
out who’ll be there, and seeking out specific people to connect with.
8. Through Online Directories
Portals like Superpages.com, Hoovers, Indeed and Glassdoor represent treasure
troves of information about individual companies and entire industries.
You can conduct searches within a specific geographic radius or search
by company name. Online directories are especially valuable for
revealing names of managers, directors and others with the authority to
make hiring decisions, allowing you to circumvent the black hole that
many HR departments represent.
9. Reading Industry Publications
If you are looking for a job in your present line of work, you may
already be familiar with the leading industry publications. If not, now
is a good time to become acquainted with them. By reading industry
publications you will learn who’s who and what the next big thing is
likely to be. Some industry publications also include specialized job
listings. Reading industry publications also provides an ideal crash
course for career changers to become familiar with a new industry.
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